Setting Up an Enhanced Recovery Programme

Abstract

The subject of this chapter is one of the most debated topics at meetings and conferences, with novice teams frequently requesting advice on how to get started with enhanced recovery (ER). The initiative usually begins through the enthusiasm of a clinical champion, who should then form a steering group of key stakeholders to oversee the introduction of ER. This group will also be responsible for the creation of a robust business case to ensure that there is appropriate management and financial backing for the venture. Creation of a new care pathway and associated literature should then follow, together with development of a suitable audit of outcomes or monitoring of the new pathway. Education of professional colleagues, patients, relatives and carers is essential to the success of the programme and it is important to begin with a pilot to test the concept. Once the new pathway has been tested and monitored, the next phase is to embed the protocols as standard practice and to refine and publicise the programme as necessary.